This course breaks down the process of portraiture into manageable steps—from blocking in basic shapes, establishing accurate proportions using reference points, to building up value progressions. You’ll learn the best way to approach each stage of a portrait, from initial sketch to final details. We begin by working from photo references to develop your ability to capture likeness, culminating in a live model session. Whether you prefer to sketch loosely or render in detail, you'll learn techniques that adapt to your artistic goals. Model fee included

Click HERE for a materials list for this course.

• We believe art should be accessible to all. Scholarships are available for those who qualify.
• Membership is one of the easiest and most effective ways to support our mission! Learn more about it's benefits and discounts!

Throughout this 10-week course, you will explore the world of fiber design. Specifically Embroidery and Weaving! Students will spend the first 5 weeks mastering the art of Embroidery. The class will start with stitching techniques. Over the course of the 5 weeks, students will be able to create a painting of thread! Weeks 6-10 are all about looms! Students will learn basic weaving techniques and be able to apply them to create abstract tapestries! Every piece of art tells a story, and these weavings are no different. Throughout the course, students will keep a sketchbook filled with design ideas and backstories for their weavings and embroidery pieces!

Click HERE for a materials list for this course!

• We believe art should be accessible to all. Scholarships are available for those who qualify.
• Membership is one of the easiest and most effective ways to support our mission! Learn more about it's benefits and discounts!

This 10-week course offers a comprehensive introduction to the art of wheel throwing. Students will learn the fundamentals of clay preparation, centering, and shaping basic forms like bowls and cylinders. As the course progresses, students will explore trimming, attaching handles, surface decoration techniques and glazing. With hands-on practice and one-on-one guidance, participants will refine their skills and complete personal projects. The final weeks focus on finishing touches and group critiques, providing students with a well-rounded foundation in the art of functional pottery. Suitable for beginners eager to explore the world of ceramics.

This class is held in a ADA accessable studio space

• We believe art should be accessible to all. Scholarships are available for those who qualify.
• Membership is one of the easiest and most effective ways to support our mission! Learn more about it's benefits and discounts!

Step into the world of pottery with our All About the Wheel class, offering basic to advanced wheel-throwing techniques! Beginners kick off by learning to center and throw cylinders and bowls, while returning students refine their personal style and dive into advanced techniques and individual projects. Explore glaze application and decoration in a vibrant group setting. Plan to unleash your creativity, and focus on crafting functional pots for specific foods and events this spring! Enroll now and let the wheel-spinning adventure begin!

This class is scheduled to be held in CCS, which is only accessable by stairs.

• We believe art should be accessible to all. Scholarships are available for those who qualify.
• Membership is one of the easiest and most effective ways to support the mission of HYS

Discover the expressive potential of pastels in this 10-week studio course. Start with foundational techniques through still life studies, focusing on application methods, understanding light and shadow, and exploring color blending. Build your confidence in observing and interpreting form, surface, and atmosphere, while developing your own artistic voice with this versatile medium. Whether you're new to pastels or looking to refine your skills, this class offers a supportive space to experiment and grow.

Click HERE to see the materials list for this course

• We believe art should be accessible to all. Scholarships are available for those who qualify.
• Membership is one of the easiest and most effective ways to support the mission of HYS

Unlock the secrets of abstract and expressionistic painting with EO Omwake's tailored classes, designed to cater to each student's unique preferences. Dive into the essence of creativity, regardless of your painting experience, and learn foundational and advanced skills in the historic Chester Springs Fine Art Studio. Join a community of artists of all levels, working together to explore the nuts and bolts of painting, receiving personalized guidance from EO Omwake, and culminating in a valuable end-of-class critique. Elevate your artistry and enrich lives through your creations – take the plunge and enroll now to unleash your creative potential!

click HERE for a materials list for this course!

• We believe art should be accessible to all. Scholarships are available for those who qualify.
• Membership is one of the easiest and most effective ways to support our mission! Learn more about it's benefits and discounts!

Inclusive Clay classes provide ceramic art education for adults with intellectual disabilities, fostering an inclusive and empowering environment. Participants learn handbuilding techniques like slab building, coiling, and pinching, with sessions also covering surface treatments and glazing.

For more information, check out Inclusive Clay

This class is held in a ADA accessable studio space

Eligibility and Participation Requirements:

• Participants must be over 18 and enrolled in the PA Department of Human Services ODP-HCBS waiver program.
• A support person must accompany participants and stay for the entire class.
• Support staff can create pottery at no additional cost while ensuring their participant is adequately supported.

In this vibrant, hands-on class, young artists will explore a variety of materials and techniques designed to ignite their imagination. Each project encourages creative expression while building fine motor skills, artistic vocabulary, and confidence. From playful experimentation to proud finished pieces, children will discover the joy of making art in a supportive and inspiring environment.

• We believe art should be accessible to all. Scholarships are available for those who qualify.
• Membership is one of the easiest and most effective ways to support the mission of HYS